10 Ways to Create a Mudroom When You’re Tight on Space

How to maximize your mudroom and make the most of a small space.

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ByLiz Thompson

Published on March 11, 2017

Photography by studio mcgee

Every home needs a place to drop bags and backpacks, kick off shoes, and stash odds and ends. Even the tiniest spaces have the ability to carve out a niche for use as a mini mudroom. It’s time to get creative and see how to plot a spot to stow your stuff.

All of the Essentials

Every mudroom, no matter the size, has the essentials. A place to hang coats, hats, and scarves. A perch to sit on while putting on shoes. A floor that can handle wet and muddy boots. And a bin for stowables, like pet leashes, mittens, and hats. This small entry space checks all the boxes and looks great while doing it.

Photography by home bunch

Corner Crash Pad

If you ever thought a tiny corner couldn’t have mudroom potential, this might change your mind. The little bench, painted in the same shade as the walls, blends in seamlessly. A beadboard background adds detail to the nook, with just enough space to keep a small amount of items organized.

Photography by Vivian Johnson Photography

Passing Through

No need to take up a whole room for miscellaneous gear when an entry hall will do just fine. A mudroom bench makes for the perfect landing pad. We’re loving the elegance of this spot and the design that doesn’t overwhelm the space.

Photography by decor pad

Room With a View

Maybe you have a small room that you are currently using as a pantry or closet. This tiny space could easily be turned into a mudroom. Cabinets and stow away areas hold athletic gear, toys, and shoes.

Photography by vtwonen

Sweet Spot

A corner niche is the perfect place to create a drop spot for outdoor wear and boots. Rolling bins, marked for easy identification of items keep stuff readily available yet out of sight. Throw down a sheepskin for comfy seating and lean a large mirror for one last look before heading out the door.

Photography by apartment therapy

Peg Appeal

Possibly the most minimalist version of a mudroom ever, this gloriously simple wall serves as both a drop-spot and art. Add several pegs to a wall for hanging bags, jackets, scarves, and hats. A tiny shelf keeps things interesting.

Photography by jeremy bittermann

Converted Closet

If you are lucky enough to have a small closet off of your entry, don’t bog it down with a boring old dowel and hanging coats. Create a mudroom that is both useful and attractive. A small bench lends a bit of seating, and creative organizers, like felt baskets and hanging wire bins, keep every little item in place.

Photography by fresh crush

Copper Cool

Make your own mudroom space in a foyer or back entry with this DIY. Add a floating shelf, key pegs, artwork, and the copper shoe rack, and you are set! This compact spot has everything a decent crash pad needs.

Photography by a beautiful mess

Locker Room

Score some vintage lockers, paint them in a bright shade, and use it to stow your stuff. Consider it a stand-in mudroom that can perk up any space.

Photography by tubbs chris

Moody Miscellanea

Yes, deep purple is unexpected in a mudroom. But that’s what makes it so fantastic. Add character to a corner or niche with brooding color that carves out a spot for hanging gear. An antique chair and sideboard are ideal design elements for this look.